News Release Archive

Reclamation to Increase Releases from Yellowtail Dam

Media Contact: Paula A. Holwegner, (406) 247-7300, pholwegner@gp.usbr.gov
Mark Andersen, mandersen@gp.usbr.gov

For Release: May 23, 2008

The Bureau of Reclamation will be increasing releases to the Bighorn River from Yellowtail Dam beginning late Friday, May 23. Releases will be stepped-up from the current rate of 1,500 cubic feet per second (cfs) to approximately 4,500 cfs over a three day period. The increases are necessary to help control the rate-of-fill of Yellowtail Reservoir (Bighorn Lake). Inflows to Yellowtail were averaging approximately 8,000 cfs on Friday and based on the National Weather Service streamflow forecast, similar or higher inflows can be expected over the next few days. Further adjustments to releases during the next few weeks are likely depending on inflow conditions. Bighorn River recreationists are cautioned to be aware of changing flow conditions during this time.

# # #

The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.

Relevant Link:

Montana Area Office Home Page